Exchange – On-Site Orientation
Exchange students do not attend SOAR (Student Orientation, Advising, and Registration). SOAR is intended for degree-seeking UW students only.
Instead, all incoming exchange students are required to attend exchange student orientation. Orientation is held a few days before the start of the semester. This orientation is tailored specifically to exchange and visiting students.
Fall 2026 Exchange Student Orientation (for students starting exchange in the fall term): Friday, August 28, 2026
Spring 2027 Exchange Student Orientation (for students starting exchange in the spring term): Friday, January 15, 2027
Details will be available by email prior to orientation.
Orientation is not a formal event. Please come dressed comfortably. It can be cool in our academic buildings in August, so we recommend bringing a cardigan or layer if you tend to get cold easily.
Please be sure to dress warmly (winter jackets, etc) for any orientation events that are held outside in January.
Orientation
Our webpages and on-site orientation will set you up for success at UW–Madison. We recommend that you review and become familiar with the information prior to your arrival on campus.